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Top 10 Important Marine Engineering Books
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Marine engineering is a specialized subject, which requires equally specialized books to learn and understand its concepts. Marine engineers, both students, and sea-going professionals have to continuously keep themselves abreast with the changing technologies and policies in the maritime field.
Though there are several books out there to learn about marine engineering and its subjects, there are a few that are extremely comprehensive and useful for mariners around the world.

In this article, we have handpicked some of the best marine engineering books, which should be there in the collection of every marine engineer.
1. Introduction to Marine Engineering – D.A. Taylor
One of the finest and most-read books on marine engineering, Introduction to marine engineering by D.A. Taylor provides information on every aspect of the ship’s machinery systems. An extremely valuable guide for maritime professionals, this is a “must-have” book for those studying marine engineering or preparing for competency exams.
- D. A. Taylor (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 372 Pages - 03/11/1996 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
2. General Engineering Knowledge (Marine Engineering) – H.D McGeorge
General Engineering Knowledge by H.D McGeorge is the perfect textbook for those seeking a one-stop resource for marine engineering subjects. Though it doesn’t provide in-depth insights into the working of all machinery, the book is quite useful for getting a general overview of all the important points of every machine on a ship.
- Hardcover Book
- McGeorge, H D (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 168 Pages - 09/30/2015 (Publication Date) - Routledge (Publisher)
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3. Marine Auxiliary Machinery – H.D McGeorge
Yet another masterpiece by H.D McGeorge, the Marine Auxiliary Machinery is a highly respected book for both students and sea-going marine engineers. This book is the ultimate guide for marine auxiliary machinery and provides comprehensive information on the operation, care, and maintenance of the ship’s machinery and apparatus.
- MCGEORGE, H D (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 528 Pages - 02/02/1999 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
4. Lamb’s Question and Answers on Marine Diesel Engines – S. Christensen
Lamb’s Question and Answers on Marine Diesel Engines is a one-stop resource for knowledge on marine engines. From the most basic concepts to the most advanced principles, this book covers everything in an easy-to-understand format. Without a doubt, Lamb’s book on Marine Diesel Engines is the best book in the market for understanding marine engines.
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Hardcover Book
- Christensen, S. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 544 Pages - 05/03/1990 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
5. Pounder’s Marine Diesel Engines and Gas Turbines – Doug Woodyard
Pounder’s Marine Diesel Engines and Gas Turbines is one of the oldest books on marine diesel engines and gas turbines. Now in its ninth edition, the book has extensively helped both students and sea-going engineers to understand the technology and concepts behind marine diesel engines and gas turbines.
- Hardcover Book
- Woodyard, Doug (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 928 Pages - 11/05/2009 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
6. Marine Electrical Equipment and Practice – H.D McGeorge
An important book in the H.D McGeorge’s marine engineering series of textbooks, the Marine Electrical Equipment and Practice by H.D McGeorge is an important book for marine engineers who seek to understand ship’s electrical equipment and operating principles.
- Used Book in Good Condition
- MCGEORGE, H D (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 168 Pages - 07/15/1993 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
7. Marine Boilers –G.T.H Flanagan
An extremely comprehensive and important book on marine boilers used on ships, this book on marine boilers provides information on boilers and associated equipment as used at sea. A must-have book for all marine engineers appearing for competency exams, it covers every aspect of marine boilers and their types used on ships.
- FLANAGAN, G T H (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 128 Pages - 08/28/1990 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
8. Reed’s Basic Electrotechnology – Marine Engineering Series
Reed’s sixth volume of the marine engineering series deals with the electrotechnology and electrical engineering principles of the ship. A step-by-step solution to a variety of electrical systems is provided in an easy to understand format. This book should be with every marine engineer going to the sea.
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Also, check out Reed’s Volume 7 on Advance Electrotechnology
9. Practical Marine Electrical Knowledge – Dennis T. Hall
Practical marine electrical knowledge is a famous book by Dennis T. Hall. The book provides knowledge of the ship’s electrical system, including the generation plant, switchboards, and distribution network. It also focuses on electrical safety and safe working practices required on the ship.
- Dennis T. Hall (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 132 Pages - 12/04/1999 (Publication Date) - Witherby Seamanship Internatio (Publisher)
10. Ship Construction – David J. Eyres
Ship construction by David J. Eyres is a comprehensive book on shipbuilding and shipyard practices for marine engineers and naval architects. It also provides the latest developments in the construction of different types of ships and safety practices. This is an essential book for both maritime students and professionals working in the field of ship construction and maintenance.
- Used Book in Good Condition
- Hutchinson, Keith W. (Author)
- English (Publication Language)
- 376 Pages - 04/09/2007 (Publication Date) - Butterworth-Heinemann (Publisher)
More Recommended Books for Marine Engineers
Reed’s Marine Engineering Series, Vol. 8 – General Engineering Knowledge for Marine Engineers
Reeds Marine Engineering Series, Vol. 12 – Motor Engineering Knowledge for Marine Engineers
Introduction to Naval Architecture, Fourth Edition – E.C. Tupper
Notes on Instrumentation and Control (Marine Engineering Series) – G.J. Roy
Reed’s Instrumentation and Control Systems, 4th Edition – Marine Engineering Series
Complete List of Important Books on Marine Boilers
Complete list of Important Books on Marine Auxiliary Machinery
Do you know any important marine engineering books that we have missed on the list? Let us know and we will add it here.
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Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
About Author
Raunek Kantharia is a marine engineer turned maritime writer and entrepreneur. After a brief stint at the sea, he founded Marine Insight in 2010. Apart from managing Marine Insight, he also writes for a number of maritime magazines and websites.
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Disclaimer :
The information on this website is for general purposes only. While efforts are made to ensure accuracy, we make no warranties of any kind regarding completeness, reliability, or suitability. Any reliance you place on such information is at your own risk. We are not liable for any loss or damage arising from the use of this website.
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I want to read the marine engine knowledge books
Dear Raunek ,
Do you have any specific books or articles about energy saving means and methods
for existing and newbuilding vessels ?
Thanks for prompt reply ,
Pieter
i am a trainee marine engineer and i need help under standing electrics as my knowledge is very poor, any one that might be able to email me and give me some advice or recommened good marine electrical books i wud be very greatful
am a new graduate of high school and i want to persue marine engineering, so please i need your help.
am about going for maritime academy, I need advice so I can be good in marine engineering
please, how can i buy this books? i live in Nigeria (port harcourt)
Please let me have list of text books for 1. Shipbuilding Engineering, 2.Naval architecture and 3. marine Engineering undergraduate courses as well as post graduate courses
Thanking you
am taking marine engineering from DMI located in Tanzania i have seen your list but i don’t see the book called MAINTENANCE OF MARINE MACHINERY in your list so i remind you to put that book.
Hi to everyone, recently i found this post on internet and i think that is amazing and i wanna to share with you.
merchant navy ke liye cellabus kya h plz btaiye sir
am about going for maritime academy, I need advice so I can be good in marine engineering
Can you suggest some books for ship mechanics and marine structures…(strenght of materials)
MacGibbon’s Marine Engineers’ Pocket Book is a known one for maritime professionals
I want to become a marine engineer.
Thanks to all of you. 🙏